How to choose a suitable barcode scanner?

How to choose a suitable barcode scanner?

Which barcode scanner do I need?

There are many options to consider when choosing a barcode scanner. It is not as simple as picking the cheapest reader. Though cost savings maybe a large consideration, choosing the cheapest scanner may force you to buy another scanner in the long run. Depending on your work environment, you'll need a scanner with an appropriate IP Rating, so it doesn't fail due to use or abuse.

Handheld vs. Hands-free Scanners

Hands-free scanners are more efficient when it is easier to bring the barcode to the scanner rather than the scanner to the barcode. Such examples of this are Point-of-Sale (POS) applications, or automated assembly lines. Handheld scanners are a better fit with large, bulky items, or when you have to scan multiple items in different locations. Most applications use handheld scanners.

Laser vs. CCD Scanning vs. Imaging

Laser scanners are generally more expensive than CCD scanners, but can often be more efficient in their scanning ability. They can be designed to read barcodes from a great distance, allowing workers to scan items on the top shelf of a warehouse without having to move closer to the item. These scanners are also a better option when the barcode is not on a flat, hard surface as CCD scanners are used in close contact situations. Laser Scanners have different options for the distance you need to scan, most come in standard, long range, and extra-long range capabilities. A situation for a CCD scanner may be a bright location, typically outside, where placing the scanner directly over the barcode will block out most outside light giving a quicker and more accurate read. Imaging technology will take a picture of the barcode and then read the barcode from that image. Though imaging technology may be slower out of the gate, when the quality of a barcode decreases, the read rate for imagers increases as the imager will look over the entire height of the barcode to find a complete strand automatically.

What Type of Laser Scanner do I Need?

Heat and light will cause thermal labels to darken. Dirt, oil or grease will cause bad reads unless infrared scanners are used which can detect high-carbon inks below the smears and stains that occur on factory floors. Remember, too, that if you laminate or otherwise protect the label, this will affect your choice of scanner. In addition, ambient light can also curtail the effectiveness of fixed beam readers. For these conditions you would require a high density laser scanner, or an imager, as they both will read poor quality barcodes with great accuracy.

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